Health board 'taking action' to improve care standards

Abertawe Bro Morgannwg University Health Board, which runs the Princess of Wales Hospital in Bridgend and Neath Port Talbot Hospital, says it wants to "apologise unreservedly" to patients and families "who have been let down by poor care."

It says it took "immediate action" when issues were identified at the Princess of Wales last year, and there is already progress being made.

It will now make more changes "as a matter of urgency", including reviews of procedures, and additional staff training.

This was a painful report to read. We know we have let down some of our patients and their families, and we apologise unreservedly for the distress this has undoubtedly caused.I believe the report is, however, a springboard to help us progress even faster in improving care. It has set us some tough challenges in a tight timescale. We will do our utmost to meet them.

I appreciate that Professor Andrews has also acknowledged examples of exemplary care taking place in both hospitals. I hope this and the determination of the Board goes some way to reassuring patients of our commitment and intention to provide consistently excellent care.